Methods and apparatus for a conducted electrical weapon

ABSTRACT

A conducted electrical weapon (“CEW”) launches wire-tethered electrodes from multiple cartridges to provide a current through a human or animal target to impede locomotion of the target. The CEW includes a handle and one or more deployment units. A handle and each deployment unit include a processing circuit and memory. The processing circuit of a handle may communicate with the processing circuit of the one or more deployment units. The processing circuit in a deployment unit may confirm receipt of a message from the processing circuit in a handle. A handle may provide operation and usage data to a deployment unit for storage. A handle may receive data from a deployment unit.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a conducted electricalweapon (“CEW”) (e.g., electronic control device) that launcheselectrodes to provide a current through a human or animal target toimpede locomotion of the target.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference tothe drawing, wherein like designations denote like elements, and:

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a conducted electrical weapon(“CEW”) that cooperates with other devices to create an environment(e.g., ecosystem) for the operation of the CEW according to variousaspects of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a handle of the CEW of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a deployment unit of the CEW ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing messages communicated between thehandle and a deployment unit of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a method of operation of the CEW of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of another method performed by the handle ofthe CEW of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of another method performed by the handle ofthe CEW of FIG. 1 after activation; and

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a method of communication between the handleof the CEW of FIG. 1 and an electronic device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A conducted electrical weapon (“CEW”) provides (e.g., delivers) acurrent through a human or animal target. The term CEW as used hereinmeans a handle and one or more deployment units as discussed in furtherdetail below. Delivery of a current through a target includes deliveryof the current through the tissue of the target. A CEW that includes oneor more deployment units may deliver a current through one or moretargets. A current may interfere with voluntary locomotion (e.g.,walking, running, moving) of a target. A current may cause pain thatencourages the target to stop moving. A current may cause skeletalmuscles of the target to become stiff (e.g., lock up, freeze, cramp,spasm) so as to disrupt voluntary control of the muscles (e.g.,neuromuscular incapacitation) by the target thereby interfering withvoluntary locomotion by the target.

A current may be delivered through a target via terminals coupled to(e.g., mounted on, positioned on) the CEW. Delivery via terminals isreferred to as local delivery (e.g., local stun) because the CEW isbrought proximate to the target to deliver the current. To provide localdelivery of a current, the user of the CEW is generally within arm'sreach of the target and brings the terminals of the CEW into contactwith or proximate to target tissue to deliver the current through thetarget.

A current may be delivered through a target via one or more electrodesthat are tethered by respective wires to the CEW. Delivery viawire-tethered electrodes is referred to as remote delivery (e.g., remotestun) because the CEW, and user of the CEW, may be separated from thetarget up to the length of the wire tether to deliver the currentthrough the target. To provide remote delivery of a current, the useroperates the CEW to launch one or more, usually two, electrodes towardthe target. The electrodes fly (e.g., travel) from the CEW toward thetarget while the respective wire tethers trail behind the electrodes.The wire tethers electrically couple the CEW to the electrodes. Theelectrodes may electrically couple to the target thereby coupling theCEW to the target. When one or more electrodes land on or are proximateto target tissue, a current may be provided through the target via theone or more electrodes and their respective wire tethers.

Conventional CEWs launch at least two electrodes to remotely deliver acurrent through a target. The at least two electrodes land on (e.g.,impact, hit, strike) or are proximate to target tissue to form a circuitthrough the first tether and electrode, target tissue, and the secondtether and electrode. Terminals or electrodes may contact or bepositioned proximate to target tissue to deliver a current through thetarget. Contact (e.g., touching, abutting, embedding) of a terminal orelectrode with target tissue establishes an electrical coupling withtarget tissue to deliver the current. A terminal or electrode that isproximate to target tissue may use ionization to establish an electricalcoupling with target tissue. Ionization may also be referred to asarcing.

In use, a terminal or electrode may be separated from target tissue bythe target's clothing or a gap of air. A signal generator of the CEW mayprovide a signal (e.g., current, pulses of current, stimulus signal) ata high voltage, in the range of 40,000 to 100,000 volts, to ionize theair in the clothing and/or the air in the gap that separates theterminal or electrode from target tissue. Ionizing the air establishes alow impedance ionization path from the terminal or electrode to targettissue. The ionization path may be used to deliver a current into targettissue. After ionization, the ionization path will persist (e.g., remainin existence) as long as a current is provided via the ionization path.When the current provided by the ionization path ceases or is reducedbelow a threshold (e.g., amperage, voltage), the ionization pathcollapses (e.g., ceases to exist) and the terminal or electrode is nolonger electrically coupled to target tissue because the impedancebetween the terminal or electrode and target tissue is high. A highvoltage in the range of about 50,000 volts can ionize air in a gap of upto about one inch.

A CEW according to various aspects of the present invention includes ahandle and one or more deployment units. A CEW may have any shape orform factor. Many CEWs are shaped like a conventional firearm such as apistol. A handle may be shaped for ergonomic use by a user. A handleincludes one or more bays (e.g., compartments, receptacles) forreceiving deployment units. A bay may include electrical contacts (e.g.,connectors, sockets, terminals, current paths, couplers) for providingelectrical power, ground, and signals to deployment units. A deploymentunit may also be referred to as a cartridge or magazine. A deploymentunit may be positioned in (e.g., inserted into, coupled to) a bay fordeploying the electrodes from the deployment unit to perform a remotedelivery. A deployment unit may releasably electrically and mechanicallycouple to a handle.

One or more bays of a handle may further couple to an insert from acalibration and test system or a dock so that the handle may communicatewith the calibration and test system or dock. A handle coupled to acalibration and test system or a dock may further provide data to thecalibration and test system or dock, which may forward the data to aserver via a network.

A deployment unit includes one or more electrodes for launching toward atarget to remotely deliver a current through the target. Typically, adeployment unit includes two electrodes that are launched at the sametime. Launching the electrodes from a deployment unit may be referred toas activating (e.g., firing) the deployment unit. Generally, activatinga deployment unit launches all of the electrodes of the deployment unit,so the deployment unit may be activated only once to launch electrodes.After use (e.g., activation, firing), a deployment unit may be removedfrom the bay and replaced with an unused (e.g., not fired, notactivated, new) deployment unit to permit launch of additionalelectrodes. A user of the CEW may insert deployment units into andremove deployment units from the bays of a handle.

A CEW may cooperate with other electronic devices to establish anecosystem. A CEW may transmit information (e.g., data) to the otherdevices in the ecosystem and receive data from the other devices of theecosystem. A CEW may perform functions within its ecosystem. A CEW maycooperate with other devices of the ecosystem to perform a function.Other devices in an ecosystem of a CEW may include an electronic device,a network, and a website server.

For example, according to various aspects of the present invention,ecosystem 100, shown in FIG. 1, may include handle 110, deployment units140 and 160, electronic device 170, network 172, and website server 174.In another implementation, an ecosystem includes handle 110, deploymentunits 140 and 160, and electronic device 170, but omits network 172 andwebsite server 174.

Handle 110 may include one or more bays (e.g., bays 120 and 130), eachbay may include one or more connectors. For example, bays 120 and 130include connectors 122 and 132 respectively. A bay may electrically andphysically couple to a deployment unit. A connector may electricallycouple control and/or data (e.g., control/data, C/D) lines (e.g.,conductors, signals) from handle 110 to a deployment unit. A connectormay provide an electrical ground (e.g., current return path, signalvoltage reference) for control/data and/or power lines. Power for adeployment unit, a stimulus signal, igniter control, and/or igniterground may be provided through the one or more connectors. Deploymentunit power, stimulus signal, igniter control, and/or igniter ground maybe provided through electrical contacts (e.g., conductors) notassociated with a connector. Deployment unit power, stimulus signal,igniter control, and/or igniter ground may be provided via a connectordifferent than the connector used for control/data signals.

A deployment unit may electrically and physically couple to (e.g., in) abay in a handle. A connector in a deployment unit may electrically andphysically couple with a connector in a bay. Control/data signals of adeployment unit may electrically couple to the control/data signals of ahandle through (e.g., via) a connector. Electrical coupling of power,ground, stimulus signal, igniter control, and/or igniter ground betweena handle and one deployment unit may be accomplished by a connector. Adeployment unit may have electrical contacts other than a connector forcoupling to the power, ground, stimulus, igniter control and/or igniterground of a handle. A bay may electrically couple its power and signalsto the power and signals of a deployment unit without the use of aconnector.

An electronic device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, laptop, personal digitalassistant, camera, digital video recorder) may communicate (e.g.,transmit, receive, exchange, transfer) information with a handle. Anelectronic device and a handle may communicate with each other using anyconventional wired or wireless communication protocol. The electronicdevice may further communicate with other devices (e.g., website server)via a network (e.g., internet, LAN, WAN, G3, G4, WiFi).

In an implementation, handle 210, shown in FIG. 2, includes userinterface 212, power supply 214, signal generator 216, processingcircuit 218, memory 220, communication circuit 222, bays 224 and 226,and connectors 242 and 262. Deployment unit 340, shown in FIG. 3includes primer 310, propellant 312, connector 320, processing circuit322, memory 324, chambers 302 and 304, and electrodes 306 and 308. Eachelectrode further includes a respective tether (not shown) coupled tothe electrode. Handle 210 and deployment unit 340 performs the functionsof a handle and a deployment unit respectively as discussed above.Together, handle 210 and one or more deployment units 340 perform thefunctions of a CEW.

Primer 310, propellant 312, chambers 302 and 304, electrodes 306 and308, processing circuit 322, and memory 324 perform the functions of aprimer, propellant, electrode, deployment unit interface, processingcircuit, and memory, respectively, as discussed above.

User interface 212, power supply 214, signal generator 216, processingcircuit 218, memory 220, communication circuit 222, bays 224 and 226,and connectors 242 and 262 perform the functions of a user interface,power supply, signal generator, processing circuit, memory,communication circuit, bays and connectors respectively as discussedabove.

A power supply provides power (e.g., energy). For a conventional CEW, apower supply provides electrical power. Providing electrical power mayinclude providing a current at a voltage. Electrical power from a powersupply may be provided as a direct current (“DC”) and/or an alternatingcurrent (“AC”). A power supply may include a battery. A power supply mayprovide energy for performing the functions of a CEW, a handle, and/or adeployment unit. A power supply may provide the energy for a current(e.g., stimulus signal) that is provided through a target to impedelocomotion of the target. A power supply may provide energy foroperating the electronic and/or electrical components (e.g., parts,subsystems, circuits) of a handle and/or one or more deployment units.The energy of a power supply may be renewable (e.g., one or morerechargeable batteries, solar, thermal, wind) or exhaustible. A powersupply may be replaceable. The energy from a power supply may beconverted from one form (e.g., voltage, current, magnetic) to anotherform to perform the functions of a CEW.

For example, power supply 214 provides power for the operation of userinterface 212, signal generator 216, processing circuit 218,communication circuit 222, memory 220, and processing circuit 322,memory 324, primer 310, and the stimulus signal delivered via electrodes306 and 308 to impede target locomotion. Power supply 214 providesenergy for activating primer (e.g., propellant) 310 of deployment unit340. Power supply 214 provides energy to one or more deployment units(e.g., 140, 160) for performing the functions of the deployment unit.

When deployment unit 340 is inserted into bay 224, for example,connector 242 electrically couples to connector 320. The electricalcoupling between connector 242 of bay 224 and connector 320 ofdeployment unit 340 establishes an interface between handle 210 anddeployment unit 340. Handle 210 and deployment unit 340 may communicatewith each other via the interface. Connector 262 establishes aninterface to a deployment unit inserted into bay 226 via the connectorof the deployment unit.

A user interface may include one or more controls that permit a user tointeract and/or communicate with a CEW. Via a user interface, a user maycontrol (e.g., influence, select) the operation (e.g., function) of aCEW. A user interface on a CEW may permit a user of the CEW to controlsome functions of an electronic device that communicates with the CEW.

A control includes any electromechanical device for operation by a userto establish or break an electrical circuit. A control may include aportion of a touch screen. A control may include any electromechanicaldevice suitable for manual manipulation by a user. A control may includeany electromechanical device for operation by a user to establish orbreak (e.g., open) an electrical circuit. A control may include aswitch. Operation of a control may occur by the selection of a portionof a touch screen. Operation of a control provides information to adevice.

A processing circuit may detect the operation of a control. A processingcircuit may perform a function of the device responsive to operation ofa control. A processing circuit may perform a function, halt a function,resume a function, or suspend a function of the device of which thecontrol and the processing circuit are a part.

A user interface may provide information to a user. A user may receivevisual, haptic, and/or audible information via a user interface. A usermay receive visual information via devices that visually display (e.g.,present, show) information (e.g., LCDs, LEDs, light sources, graphicaland/or textual display, display, monitor, touchscreen). A user interfacemay include a communication circuit for transmitting information to anelectronic device for presentation to a user. A user interface maydetect the insertion or removal of a battery pack.

For example, a handle may include a control that performs the functionof a safety switch. When the safety switch is enabled (e.g., on,disarmed), the CEW cannot launch electrodes or provide a current viaelectrodes or terminals. When the safety switch is disabled (e.g., off,armed), the CEW may perform the functions of a CEW to disable a target.When safety switch is disabled and another control (e.g., trigger) isoperated (e.g., pulled), the CEW may begin the process of providing acurrent for disabling a target, launching electrodes to provide thecurrent, and/or providing a warning. The controls and safety switch area part of the user interface of the handle. A deployment unit mayprovide information to a handle for presentation to a user on a displayof the user interface. A user interface of a handle may receiveinformation for communication to a deployment unit. A handle may includeother controls and/or a display as part of the user interface of theCEW.

A processing circuit includes any circuitry and/or electrical orelectronic component for performing a function. A processing circuit mayinclude circuitry that performs (e.g., executes) a stored program. Aprocessing circuit may include a digital signal processor, amicrocontroller, a microprocessor, an application specific integratedcircuit, a programmable logic device, logic circuitry, state machines,MEMS devices, signal conditioning circuitry, communication circuitry, aconventional computer (e.g., server), a conventional radio, a networkappliance, data buses, address buses, and/or any combination thereof inany quantity suitable for performing a function and/or executing one ormore stored programs.

A processing circuit may include conventional passive electronic devices(e.g., resistors, capacitors, inductors) and/or active electronicdevices (op amps, comparators, analog-to-digital converters,digital-to-analog converters, programmable logic, SRCs, diodes,transistors). A processing circuit may include conventional data buses,output ports, input ports, timers, memory, and arithmetic units.

A processing circuit may provide and/or receive electrical signalswhether digital and/or analog in form. A processing circuit may provideand/or receive digital information via a conventional bus using anyconventional protocol. A processing circuit may receive information,manipulate the received information, and provide the manipulatedinformation. A processing circuit may store information and retrievestored information. Information received, stored, and/or manipulated bythe processing circuit may be used to perform a function, control afunction, and/or to perform a stored program.

A processing circuit may have a low power state in which only a portionof its circuits operate or the processing circuit performs only certainfunctions. A processing circuit may be switched (e.g., awoken) from alow power state to a higher power state in which more or all of itscircuits operate or the processing circuit performs additional functionsor all of its functions.

A processing circuit may control the operation and/or function of othercircuits and/or components of a system such as a handle and/or adeployment unit. A processing circuit may receive status informationregarding the operation of other components, perform calculations withrespect to the status information, and provide commands (e.g.,instructions) to one or more other components for the component to startoperation, continue operation, alter operation, suspend operation, orcease operation. Commands and/or status may be communicated between aprocessing circuit and other circuits and/or components via any type ofbus including any type of conventional data/address bus. The handle mayinclude a processing circuit. Each deployment unit may include aprocessing circuit respectively.

A memory may store information. A memory may store instructions and/ordata for a processing circuit. A processing circuit may include anintegrated (e.g., internal) memory. A memory may be separate from aprocessing circuit. A memory may include any conventional memory (e.g.,non-volatile, SRAM, flash, DRAM). A memory may include any conventionaltechnology (e.g., solid-state, magnetoresistive, resistive,ferroelectric).

A signal generator provides a current (e.g., stimulus signal). Astimulus signal may include one or more pulses of current. A stimulussignal may include a series (e.g., succession) of current pulses. Thepulses of a stimulus signal may be delivered at a rate (e.g., 22 pps)for a period of time (e.g., 5 seconds). A stimulus signal mayelectrically couple (e.g., via ionization) a CEW to a target. A signalgenerator may provide a stimulus signal at a voltage of sufficientmagnitude to ionize air in one or more gaps in series with the signalgenerator and the target to establish one or more ionization paths tosustain delivery of a current through the target as discussed above. Apulse of a conventional stimulus signal may include a high voltageportion for ionizing gaps of air to establish electrical coupling and alower voltage portion for providing current through target tissue toimpede locomotion of the target.

A communication circuit transmits and/or receives information. Acommunication circuit may transmit and/or receive (e.g., communicate)information via a wireless link and/or a wired connection. Acommunication circuit may communicate using wireless (e.g., radio,light, sound, vibrations) and/or wired (e.g., electrical, optical)mediums. A communication circuit may communicate using any conventionalwireless (e.g., Bluetooth, Zigbee, WAP, WiFi, Near Field Communication,infrared, IrDA) and/or any conventional wired (e.g., USB, RS-232,Firewire, Ethernet) communication protocol. A communication circuit mayreceive information from a processing circuit for transmission. Acommunication circuit may provide received information to a processingcircuit.

A communication circuit in one device (e.g., CEW) may communicate with acommunication circuit in another device (e.g., smart phone, tabletcomputer, laptop computer, personal digital assistant). Communicationsbetween two devices may permit the two devices to cooperate inperforming a function of either device. Information transferred betweena CEW and an electronic device may be encrypted (e.g., encoded,enciphered).

A communication circuit enables a CEW to communicate with an electronicdevice. The electronic device may exchange information with the CEW.Information provided by the CEW may include usage data (e.g., logs,history), deployment dates and/or times, device information (e.g.,manufacturer, serial number, software version, power supply type),deployment unit status (e.g., operational state, safety on/off, amountof energy used or remaining in the power supply, fired or unfired), andconfiguration information (e.g., number of deployment units).Information provided to the CEW may include commands (e.g.,instructions), configuration information, and software updates.

An electrode, as discussed above, couples to a filament and is launchedtoward a target to deliver a current through the target. An electrodemay include aerodynamic structures to improve accuracy of flight from aCEW toward the target. An electrode may include structures (e.g.,spears, barbs) for mechanically coupling to a target. Movement of anelectrode out of a deployment unit toward a target deploys (e.g., pulls,tows) the filament from the deployment unit.

A propellant propels one or more electrodes from a deployment unittoward a target. A propellant applies a force (e.g., from an expandinggas) on a surface of the one or more electrodes to push (e.g., propel,launch) the one or more electrodes from the deployment unit toward thetarget. The force applied to the one or more electrodes is sufficient toaccelerate the electrodes to a velocity suitable for traversing adistance to a target, for deploying the respective filaments coupled tothe one or more electrodes, and for coupling, if possible, theelectrodes to the target. A propellant may include a canister ofcompressed air that provides a rapidly expanding gas when opened (e.g.,pierced) to propel the electrodes toward the target.

A primer, upon being activated (e.g., mechanically, electrically), mayreact chemically (e.g., burns, combusts) to produce an expanding gas torelease the propellant (e.g., open the canister) or to launch theelectrodes of a deployment unit. A primer (e.g., Berdan primer,pyrotechnic) may include a small metal cup containing an electricallysensitive explosive.

A deployment unit may include one or more connectors that electricallycouple the deployment unit to a handle and to the signal generator,processing circuit, and/or power supply of the handle. One end of theelectrode may be electrically coupled through a filament to a connectorwithin the deployment unit. The current provided by the signal generatormay be provided to the deployment unit via a connector. The same ordifferent connector may be used for a processing circuit of a handle tocommunicate with a processing circuit of the deployment unit. Uponremoving a deployment unit from the bay of the handle, the connector ofthe deployment unit separates from the connector of the handle to permitremoval of the deployment unit from the bay of the handle and toelectrically disconnect the deployment unit from the handle. Insertionof a new deployment unit into a bay electrically couples the newdeployment unit to the handle.

In an implementation, handle 210 provides signals to bay 224 and bay226. Deployment unit 340, when inserted into bay 224, electricallycouples to the signals of bay 224. Another deployment unit 340, wheninserted into bay 226, electrically couples to the signals of bay 226.Some or all of the signals of bay 224 may couple to some or all of thesignals of deployment unit 340 inserted into bay 224 via one or moreconnectors, for example, connector 242. Some or all of the signals ofbay 226 may couple to some or all of the signals of another deploymentunit 340 inserted into bay 226 via one or more connectors, for example,connector 262. Handle 210 and deployment units 340 include the followingconnections.

Signal generator 216 provides two stimulus signals (e.g., differentpolarities, same polarities) to each deployment unit inserted into abay. Stimulus signals SP 238 and SN 239 couple to SP 330 and SN 332 ofdeployment unit 340 when inserted into bay 224. Stimulus signals SP 258and SN 259 couple to SP 330 and SN 332 of another deployment unit 340when inserted into bay 226.

Signal generator 216 provides igniter (“I”) controls 232 and 252 to bays224 and 226 respectively, to activate (e.g., ignite, energize, launch,fire, trigger) a primer in a deployment unit. Igniter signal 232 couplesto igniter control 336 of the deployment unit inserted into bay 224while igniter signal 252 couples to igniter control 336 of thedeployment unit inserted into bay 226. Responsive to a user control,user interface 212 may cooperate with processing circuit 218 to commandsignal generator 216 to provide an igniter control to a deployment unit.

A power bus may provide energy from power supply 214 of handle 210 tothe components of deployment units inserted into bay 224 and/or bay 226.For example, power P 230 and ground G1 236 couple to P 360 and G1 352respectively of deployment unit 340 inserted into bay 224 to supplypower to processing circuit 322 and other components of the deploymentunit inserted into bay 224. Power P 230 and ground G1 256 couple to P360 and G1 352 respectively of deployment unit 340 inserted into bay 226to supply power to processing circuit 322 and other components of thedeployment unit inserted into bay 226.

A control/data bus may provide control and data signals from processingcircuit 218 of handle 210 to the respective processing circuits ofdeployment units inserted into bay 224 and/or bay 226. For example, C/D234 couples to C/D 350 of deployment unit 340 inserted into bay 224 tosupply control and data signals to processing circuit 322. C/D 254couples to C/D 350 of deployment unit 340 inserted into bay 226 tosupply control and data signals to processing circuit 322.

User interface 212 may provide a notice (e.g., electric signal, datapacket) to processing circuit 218 responsive to operation of a controlof user interface 212 and/or upon receipt of information from the user.User interface 212 may receive information from processing circuit 218for presentation to a user.

Processing circuit 218 controls and/or coordinates the operation ofhandle 210. Processing circuit 218 may control and/or coordinate theoperation of some or all aspects of operation of deployment unit 340. Inan implementation, processing circuit 218 includes a microprocessor thatexecutes a stored program. Processing circuit 218 couples to memory 220,which is separately shown although it may be integrated into themicroprocessor that stores the executable program. The microprocessorincludes input ports and output ports and/or data buses forcommunication with user interface 212, signal generator 216, anddeployment unit 340 to receive notices and/or information and to provideinformation and/or control signals.

Processing circuit 218 receives notices and information from userinterface 212. Processing circuit 218 performs the functions of a CEWresponsive to notices and/or information from user interface 212.Processing circuit 218 may control the operation, in whole or part, ofuser interface 212, signal generator 216, communication circuit 222,and/or deployment unit 340 to perform an operation of a CEW.

Processing circuit 218 may control signal generator 216 so that thestimulus pulse is provided by some electrodes of deployment unit 340,but not by other electrodes. Processing circuit 218 may control signalgenerator 216 so that some electrodes of deployment unit 340electrically couple with a target while other electrodes of deploymentunit 340 do not electrically couple with the target. Processing circuit218 may control signal generator 216 so that some or all of theelectrodes of deployment unit 340 inserted into bay 224 and/or some orall of the electrodes of deployment unit 340 inserted into bay 226provide a stimulus signal through the target. Processing circuit 218 mayinstruct signal generator 216 to alternate providing the stimulus signalbetween deployed pairs of electrodes of deployment unit 340 insertedinto bay 224 and/or deployment unit 340 inserted into bay 226.

Communication circuit 222 may perform the functions of wired and/orwireless communication discussed above. Communication circuit 222 mayinclude one or more transceivers for wireless and/or wirelesscommunication. Communication circuit 222 may communicate with anelectronic device.

In an implementation, communication circuit 222 may couple with awebsite (e.g., server, computer, network, internet, evidence managementsystem, evidence.com, records management system, dispatch system)through an electronic device. Using, for example, Bluetooth Low Energy(“BLE”), communication circuit 222 may advertise (e.g., transmit abeacon, broadcast) its unique identifier to a BLE enabled electronicdevice. An application on the electronic device may scan foridentifiers. If an identifier is found, the communication circuit 222and the electronic device may authenticate one another and establish asecure communication channel. The communication channel may encrypt(e.g., protect against unauthorized access) all or some of the data(e.g., messages, information) transferred between the communicationcircuit and the electronic device. The electronic device may, in turn,establish a secure and/or encrypted communication channel with a websiteand forward information from the CEW to the website. The informationprovided by the CEW may include usage data indicating when a deploymentunit was activated, which deployment unit and/or handle, date and/ortime of activation, and energy levels. The transfer of information mayconform to evidentiary rules.

Electrodes 306 and 308 are deployed from chambers 302 and 304,respectively, in deployment unit 340. Depending on the polarity of thevoltage that may be applied by a signal generator on each launchedelectrode, the processing circuit of handle 210 may instruct signalgenerator 216 to provide a stimulus signal through electrodes 306 and308 to deliver a current through target tissue. Stimulus signal SP 330provides the stimulus signal to electrode 306 and stimulus signal SN 332provides the stimulus signal to electrode 308. For clarity, only twoelectrodes are shown for deployment unit 340 in FIG. 3. Electrodes mayprovide a stimulus signals that has any combination of polarities withrespect to ground.

Primer 310 of deployment unit inserted into bay 224 may be activated byigniter control 336. Responsive to user interface 212, processingcircuit 218 may command signal generator 216 to provide igniter signal232 to bay 224 or igniter signal 252 to bay 226 which couples to ignitercontrol 336 of deployment unit 340 of the respective bay. Ignitercontrol 336 activates primer 310 which provides a force that releases aforce from propellant 312 that launches (e.g., propels, thrusts, fires)electrodes 306 and 308 toward a target. Primer 310 provides a force tolaunch electrodes as discussed above.

Igniter control 336 may apply a voltage (e.g., potential difference) inrelation to igniter ground (“G2”) 338. Ground G2 338 may electricallycouple to an igniter ground in a handle (e.g., ground 240 or 260 inhandle 210).

Processing circuit 322 of deployment unit 340 in bay 224 and deploymentunit 340 in bay 226 electrically couples to processing circuit 218 viaC/D signal 350 and C/D 234 and C/D 254 respectively. C/D signal 350 maycouple with a handle processing circuit through connector 320. Connector320 may include circuitry. The circuitry in connector 320 may provide ACand/or DC coupling with the use of passive or active circuit components.

C/D signal 350 may be sent or received as a voltage with respect toground G1 352. G1 352 may be distinct (e.g., electrically isolated,decoupled) from ground G2 338.

C/D signal 350 may use bidirectional or half-duplex communication (e.g.,transmission of signals in both directions, but not simultaneously).Half-duplex communication may be achieved by the use of tri-state (e.g.,three-state, 3-state) logic. Tri-state logic allows a data port toassume a high-impedance state in addition to a binary zero or one level.For example, processing circuit 322 may output a signal (e.g., binaryzero or one) to handle 210 when the processing circuit 218 input/output(“I/O”) port is in a high-impedance state. The high impedance state maybe accomplished by a pull-up resistor (e.g., a resistor between thesignal line and the power supply voltage). To signal a binary zero, theprocessing circuit would bring the signal line to a low voltage (e.g.,at or near the ground voltage, current sink).

A handle and deployment unit may use a sequence of messages (e.g.,instruction, command, data, and/or response having a specific number ofbits, bytes, or packets) to accomplish reliable communication betweeneach other. Communication may include messages and/or signals in anyconventional technology, format, and modulation. A message may includein sequence: a header, a payload, and a postscript. The header andpostscript may be defined by any communication protocol and/or standard.The header may include indicia identifying the source and may furtherinclude indicia identifying one or a group of intended receivers. Apayload is a portion of a message that conveys information forperforming a function of the system.

Communication between a handle and a deployment unit may includeconfirmation of message delivery. For example, receipt of message (e.g.,commands, instructions) sent by a handle to a deployment unit may beconfirmed by the deployment unit by echoing (e.g., returning,writing-back) the entire or a portion (e.g., transmission unit) of thereceived message. If an echoed message is incorrect, the messagetransmission may be aborted or restarted. For example, a deployment unitmay echo back each byte of a message from a handle was it is received.If the echo byte is incorrect, transmission of the message may beaborted or restarted.

If the entire message received by the handle from the deployment unit isidentical to the message sent by the handle to the deployment unit thenmessage delivery is confirmed. If a message is not returned (e.g., timedout), or the returned message differs from the sent message, atransmission error may have occurred. Messages may also include errordetection and/or correction (e.g., checksum, parity) bits. Errordetection may detect one or more bits in a message received incorrectly.Error correction provides for correction of one or more bits in amessage received in error.

For example, message sequence 400 of FIG. 4 includes messages 410, 412,414, 416, 418, 420, 422, and 424 between handle 402 and deployment unit404. Handle 110 and 210 may perform the functions of handle 402 asdiscussed below. Deployment unit 140/160 and 340 may perform thefunctions of deployment unit 404 discussed below.

Handle 402 and deployment unit 404 may exchange messages 410-416 toperform authentication process 430. Authentication may provide handle402 with proof or evidence of a valid deployment unit. Authenticationmay be provided by a challenge-response protocol. In response to anauthentication request, a processing circuit in deployment unit 404 maycompute a response using a predetermined algorithm (e.g., set of rules,calculations, instructions). Handle 402 then compares the response withan expected response based on the predetermined algorithm executed by aprocessing circuit in the handle. If the response provided agrees withthe expected response, the deployment unit may be consideredauthenticated. In another implementation, deployment unit 404 may beauthenticated by providing a password (e.g., predetermined message orword) to handle 402. Authentication may be accomplished by anyconventional method.

In an implementation, during authentication process 430, handle 402sends an identity request message to deployment unit 404 in message 410.Deployment unit 404 responds with identity response message 412. Theidentity response may contain a unique identifier (e.g., serial number),manufacturer name or number, device type, and/or other information aboutdeployment unit 404. Device type may include a deployment unit,simulator cartridge, a calibration and test system, or a dock. Handle402 may then send an authentication request message 414 requesting thatdeployment unit 404 respond with a predetermined response. Deploymentunit 404 responds with authentication response message 416. Afterauthentication process 430 is successfully performed, handle 402 maysend read and/or write requests to deployment unit 404.

Handle 402 may read data from deployment unit 404 by executing readdeployment unit process 432. Data read from deployment unit 404 may bestored in a memory of deployment unit 404. For example, for handle 402to read data, handle 402 sends read request message 418 to deploymentunit 404 to request specified information from deployment unit 404. Therequested information is provided to handle 402 by deployment unit 404in read response message 420. Prior read response message 420,deployment unit 404 may echo back (not shown) read request 418 to handle402. The echo back serves as confirmation that read request 418 wascorrectly received by deployment unit 404. Echo back may retransmit themessage as received back to the sender.

Handle 402 may write data to deployment unit 404 by executing writedeployment unit process 434. Data written to deployment unit 404 may bestored in a memory of deployment unit 404. For example, for handle 402to write data, handle 402 sends write request message 422 to deploymentunit 404. The write request message includes the data that is to bewritten into deployment unit 404. Prior to responding with writeresponse message 424, deployment unit 404 may echo back (not shown inFIG. 4) write request message 422 to handle 402. The echo back serves asconfirmation that write request message 422 was correctly received bydeployment unit 404. After deployment unit 404 has received writerequest message 422 and written the data, it sends write responsemessage 424 to handle 402. Write response message 424 confirms that anyinstruction written by the handle to a deployment unit has beenexecuted.

In an implementation, read request message 418 and write request message422 are instructions from processing circuit 218 of handle 210 toprocessing circuit 322 of deployment unit 340. Processing circuit 322may respond to a read instruction (e.g., read request message 418) byproviding data from memory 324 to processing circuit 218. Processingcircuit 322 may respond to a write instruction (e.g., write requestmessage 422) by writing data to memory 324. Processing circuit 322 mayprevent the contents of memory 324 from being altered once it has beenwritten to implement a write-once operation.

For example, responsive to an instruction from processing circuit 218,processing circuit 322 may write (e.g., set, record) a fired flag (e.g.,fired status) in memory 324. The fired flag may be represented by one ormore bits at a location in memory 324. Processing circuit 322 mayprevent alteration (e.g., modifying, erasing, over writing, changing) ofthe fired flag in memory 324 so that once the bit is set to the firedvalue, it cannot be change. Hardware (e.g., electronic or electricalcircuitry), or processing circuit software or firmware may block (e.g.,prevent, lock) alteration of the fired flag after it has been set. Thefired flag is set to the fired value when the electrodes are launchedfrom the deployment unit. Because it cannot be change after being set,the fired bit may be depended on to indicate that a deployment unit hasbeen used. The fired bit value may be requested by handle 402 when adeployment unit is interrogated via read process 432, thereby permittingthe handle 402 to detect when a fired deployment unit is inserted into abay.

In the event that the device type is not a deployment unit (e.g.,simulator cartridge, calibration and test system, dock), the fired flagis not set.

A CEW may perform method 500 of FIG. 5 to read, select, and activatedeployment units. Method 500 includes the following: arm 504, read 508,select 512, activated 516, write data 520, all units activated 524, andend 528.

A processing circuit, in either a handle or a deployment unit, mayperform may perform processes to accomplish a function. For example,authentication process 430, read process 432 (e.g., read deploymentunit), and write process 434 (e.g., write deployment unit) are processes(e.g., steps, functions, operations) performed by processing circuit 218and processing circuit 322 to accomplish authentication of a deploymentunit, to read data from a deployment unit, and to write data to adeployment unit. The processing circuits of a handle and deploymentunits may perform other processes to perform the functions of a handle,a deployment unit, and a CEW.

A processing circuit may perform any, all, or parts of a process in anyconventional manner. A processing circuit may perform processes inseries, in parallel, some in series and others in parallel. A processingcircuit may perform a process upon receiving information needed for theprocess or upon receipt of a control signal. A processing circuit maydetermine the present processing being executed and determine a nextprocess for execution. A next process for execution may depend on aresult of executing a present process.

In arm 504, a CEW, and in particular the handle of the CEW, detects thatit has been armed. As discussed above, a CEW is armed by a userswitching a safety switch off. When the safety is switched off, the CEWprepares itself to launch electrodes and/or to provide a stimulussignal.

For example, in arm 504, processing circuit 218 detects that the safetyswitch (not shown), which is part of user interface 212, has been movedfrom the on to the off position. Once processing circuit 218 detectsthat handle 210 has been armed, control (e.g., execution, program flow)passes to read 508.

In read 508, the handle reads data from (e.g., interrogates) eachdeployment unit installed in the one or more bays of the handle. Forexample, processing circuit 218 may sequentially read (e.g., polled,read in a particular order) the deployment units inserted the bays usingread process 432 discussed above. Data read from a deployment unit mayinclude a name of the manufacturer of the deployment unit, deploymentunit identifier (e.g., serial number), deployment unit type (e.g., modelnumber), date of manufacture, deployment unit firmware version, andexpiration date of the deployment unit. Data read from a deployment unitmay further include data stored in the deployment unit duringmanufacture and/or test. Further, a user or agency may specify anarbitrary string that is stored in the deployment unit for latertransfer to a server. The arbitrary string may be used to classify thedata provided by a deployment unit. Processing circuit 218 may storesome or all of the data received from a deployment unit in memory 324.Such information may be stored in a log. Processing circuit 218 mayprovide the data read from the one or more deployment units to anotherdevice via communications circuit 222 or to a user via a display on userinterface 212. Control moves from read 508 to select 512 once the readoperation is complete.

In process select 512, the handle selects one deployment unit andcooperates with the selected deployment unit in the performance ofactivated 516 and process write data 520. For example, select 512 mayselect one of deployment unit 340 inserted into bay 224 or bay 226.Activated 516 uses read process 432 to determine whether the fired flagof the selected deployment unit has been set. If the deployment unitreturns a fired flag that is set (e.g., fired, activated), select 512may then select another deployment unit until all deployment units havebeen selected.

If the deployment unit returns a fired flag not is not set (e.g., notfired), then the selected deployment unit may be used to launchelectrodes toward a target to provide a stimulus signal through thetarget. If the selected deployment unit has not been fired, thatdeployment unit remains selected for use to deliver a stimulus signaluntil that deployment unit has been activated.

Once the deployment unit has been activated, write data 520 sets thefired flag in the selected deployment unit using write 434 as discussedabove. Write data 520 may write additional data (e.g., date and/or timeof activation, handle identifier, energy level of stimulus signal) tothe deployment unit.

A handle repeats steps select 512 and all units activated 524, asdiscussed above, until all deployments units have been activated or theCEW exits the armed state in end 528. When a handle exits the armedstate, the handle stops executing all processes performed while armed.

A CEW may perform method 600 of FIG. 6 to communicate with one or moredeployment units coupled to a handle. Reading data from a deploymentunit is accomplished using read process 432 while writing data to adeployment unit is accomplished using write process 434. Authenticationof a deployment unit is accomplished using authentication process 430.Method 600 includes the following steps: arc buttons 602, safety 604,battery pack 606, test for units 608, handle selects 610, identify 612,S/N 614, authenticate 616, successful 618, failure 620, unauthenticated622, mark 624, display 626, available 628, all authenticated 630, andend 634. A processing circuit in a handle may perform all or part ofmethod 600. A processing circuit may cooperate with a communicationscircuit to perform (e.g., execute) method 600.

Method 600 may be initiated by an action taken by a user. In arc button602, the CEW may detect the arc buttons pressed (e.g., pushed,activated, turned on). An arc button is a user interface control asdiscussed above. In an implementation, a CEW has two arc buttons. Whenboth arc buttons are pressed and held, the CEW is armed and ready foruse. For example, in arc button 602, processing circuit 218 may detectthat both arc buttons are concurrently pressed. Upon detecting that botharc buttons are pressed, control moves to process test for units 608.

In safety 604, the CEW may detect that the safety control is turned off.The safety control is a control of the user interface control asdiscussed above. Turning the safety off arms the CEW and prepares theCEW for firing. For example, in safety 604, processing circuit 218detects that the safety switch is turned off. Control then proceed totest for units 608. If method 600 begins by processing circuit 218detecting that the safety is switched off, method 600 finishes prior tothe start of method 500.

In battery pack 606, a handle may detect the insertion of a battery packinto the handle. In an implementation, a handle may respond to insertionof a battery pack in the same way as it responds to a user input on auser interface. In another implementation, insertion of battery pack maycause the processing circuit to execute a startup routine. For example,in battery pack 606, processing circuit 218 detects insertion of abattery pack into handle 210. Control then proceeds to process test forunits 608.

In process test for units 608, the handle may poll (e.g., test in aparticular or serial sequence, select in sequence) bays for the presenceof deployment units. Test for units 608 may send a message or dataserially to each bay to determine whether a deployment unit is insertedinto the bay. Upon detecting a deployment unit inserted into the bay,the handle records (e.g., marks) that bay as holding a deployment unit.

For example, processing circuit 218 may send a message or data using C/D234 to test for a deployment unit in bay 224. If deployment unit 340 isinserted into bay 224, processing circuit 322 echoes the data or messageover C/D 350 and C/D 234 to processing circuit 218. If a response is notreceived by processing circuit 218 after a predetermined period of time,processing circuit may mark bay 224 as empty (e.g., no deployment unitinserted). Processing circuit 218 may send a message or data using C/D254 to test for a deployment unit in bay 226. If deployment unit 340 isinserted into bay 226, processing circuit 322 echoes the data or messageover C/D 350 and C/D 234 to processing circuit 218. If no echoed data isnot received within a predetermined time interval, the bay is marked asempty by handle 210. Processing circuit 218 repeats the test for eachbay in the handle, then control proceeds to handle selects 610.

In handle selects 610, the handle selects a previously unselecteddeployment unit inserted into one of the bays. Selection of a deploymentunit may be accomplished by selecting a bay in sequence. When adeployment unit has been selected, the handle records that deploymentunit and/or bay as having been selected. In an implementation,deployment units may not be inserted into a bay while the safety isturned off or while the arc buttons are pressed.

For example, after determining which bays hold deployment units,processing circuit 218 selects one of the deployment units. Processingcircuit 218 may select deployment unit 340 in bay 224 and record theselection in memory 220. A record is kept by processing circuit 218 ofwhich bays have deployment units and which bays and/or deployment unitshave been selected by handle selects 610. Upon selection of a deploymentunit, processing circuit 218 may then proceed to identify 612.

In identify 612, the handle requests (e.g., interrogates, queries)information (e.g., manufacturer, type) from the selected deployment unitusing read process 432. The information may include a unique identifier(e.g., serial number). The deployment unit that identifies itself is thedeployment unit selected in handle selects 610.

For example, processing circuit 218 sends an identity request message410 to the selected deployment unit over C/D 234 or 254 using readprocess 432. After confirming receipt of the message, the deploymentunit uses identity response message 412 to provide its serial number.Control proceeds to S/N 614.

In S/N 614, the unique identifier of the selected deployment unit may becompared with the deployment unit identifiers stored in memory of thehandle. If a match is found, the selected deployment unit was previouslyauthenticated by the handle, so the execution of method 600 may skip theauthentication process (e.g., authenticate 616 and all authenticated630). If a match is not found in the memory of the handle, thedeployment unit was not previously authenticated by the handle, so thehandle must now authenticate the selected deployment unit.

For example, processing circuit 218 searches memory 220 for the uniqueidentifier provided by the selected deployment unit in identify 612. Ifthe unique identifier is stored in memory 220, control proceeds to allauthenticated 630, thereby by passing the authentication process. If theunique identifier is not stored in memory 220, control proceeds toauthenticate 616.

If a CEW is armed by switching the safety off, method 600 is executed todetermine which bays hold cartridges that may be fired. While executingmethod 600, assume that the cartridge in each bay is authenticated andthe serial number of the cartridge is recorded in the handle as havingbeen authenticated. Assume that the CEW is disarmed (e.g., safety off)without firing any of the cartridges in the bays. When the CEW is armedagain, none of the cartridges will need to be authenticated againbecause they were previously authenticated. If one of the cartridges isfire and replaced after the CEW is disarmed, then the new cartridge willneed to be authenticated, but not of the other cartridges will need tobe authenticated because they were previously authenticated.

In authenticate 616, the handle attempts to authenticate the deploymentunit. Authentication may be accomplished by authentication 430 asdiscussed above. The handle may send an authentication request messageto the deployment unit. The deployment unit may respond with anauthentication response message. The handle compares the response withthe expected response in successful 618.

For example, processing circuit 218 creates authentication requestmessage 414 with a random or pseudorandom payload. The message is sentto the selected deployment unit via C/D 234 if the selected deploymentunit is in bay 224 or C/D 254 if the selected deployment unit is in bay226. Processing circuit 322 of the selected deployment unit confirmsreceipt of the authentication request message by echoing the messageover the same data bus. Processing circuit 322 encodes the payload fromauthentication request message 414 and send authentication responsemessage 416 to processing circuit 218 over via C/D 350 and C/D 234 orC/D 254 depending on the bay into which the selected deployment unit isinserted. Authentication response message 416 includes the encodedpayload. Control proceeds to successful 618.

In successful 618, the handle compares the expected authenticationresponse with the received response. If the expected and receivedresponses match, authentication is considered successful. The handle maythen request additional information from the selected deployment unit.If the expected and received responses do not match, the authenticationmay be considered to have failed.

For example, processing circuit 218 receives an authentication responsefrom deployment unit 340 over C/D 234 or 254. Processing circuit 218compares the response with an expected response. The expected responsemay be computed (e.g., generated, calculated) from the same data used tomake the payload of authentication request message 414 or may be aresponse resident in memory 220. If the expected and received responsesdo not match, control proceeds to failure 620. If the expected andreceived response matches, control proceeds to display 626.

In failure 620, the handle may record an authentication failure andassociate it with the unique identifier of the selected deployment unit.The failure may be recorded in a log stored in handle memory.

For example, processing circuit 218 writes an authentication failuremessage in memory 220. The failure message is associated with the uniqueidentifier of the deployment unit and stored in memory 220. Uponrecording the failure in memory, control proceeds to unauthenticated622.

In unauthenticated 622, the authentication failure of a deployment unitmay be presented to a user via the CEW user interface. The userinterface may permit the user to authorize using the unauthenticateddeployment unit. In another implementation, the CEW may determine thatan unauthenticated deployment unit is suitable for use. The processingcircuit may execute a stored program to make the determination.

In an example, processing circuit 218 displays the authenticationfailure to a user via user interface 212. User interface 212 includes adisplay on which the message regarding the authentication failure isdisplayed. A user may operate a control of user interface 212 toinstruct processing circuit 218 to use the deployment unit even thoughit was not authenticated. If the user inputs a decision to use anunauthenticated deployment unit, control proceeds to available 628. Ifthe user input is to not use the deployment unit, processing circuit 218proceeds to mark 624. In another example, processing circuit 218 maydecide to use the unauthenticated deployment unit without user input, socontrol proceeds to available 628. Processing circuit 218 may decide tonot use the deployment unit, in which case, control proceeds to mark624.

In mark 624, an unauthenticated deployment unit may be marked as notavailable for use. Marking may be accomplished by storing theavailability status in the memory of the deployment unit using writeprocess 434. The availability of a deployment unit and/or a bay may berecorded by the handle.

For example, processing circuit 218 may send a write request to adeployment unit 340 in bay 224 over C/D 234 and C/D 350. The writerequest may contain a request to record that the deployment unit as notavailable for use. Processing circuit 322 may confirm the request andreply with a write response after the not available status has beenwritten to memory 324. Processing circuit 218 may further make a recordof which bay holds a deployment unit that is not available for use.Control proceeds to process all authenticated 632.

If the authentication of a deployment unit was successful, display 626requests additional information from the authenticated deployment unitusing read process 432. Additional information may include expirationdate, manufacture date, length of tethers (e.g., range), and theidentity of the manufacture. The handle may present the additionalinformation on the display of the user interface so that the user maysee and be informed of the information.

For example, processing circuit 218 may execute read process 432 to getadditional information from the authenticated deployment unit.Processing circuit 218 may send the information to user interface 212for presentation to a user via a display of user interface 212. In animplementation, processing circuit 218 requests and receives theidentity of the manufacturer of the deployment unit from the deploymentunit. Processing circuit 218 sends the identity of the manufacturer touser interface 212. User interface 212 provides the identity of themanufacture to a display. The display presents the identity (e.g., name)of the manufacture on the display in a manner that is readable andcomprehensible to a user.

For example, processing circuit 218 requests the identity of themanufacture from the deployment unit and receives the information thatthe identity of the manufacture is TASER. Processing circuit 218 sendsthe identity of the manufacture to user interface 212. User interface212 presents the name TASER on the display of user interface 212, sothat it may be read by a user. Presenting the name of the manufactureron the display of user interface 212 so that it may be read by a usermay provide confidence to the user that the deployment unit in a time ofstress or exigency will operate to perform its intended function.

In available 628, the CEW records that the selected deployment unit in aparticular bay is available for use. Recording that a deployment unit ina particular bay is available for use indicates that the deployment unitand bay may be used to launch electrodes and to provide a stimulussignal through a target.

For example, processing circuit 218 may record in memory 220 thatdeployment unit 340 in bay 224 is available to be fired. Once theinformation is written in memory 220, control proceeds to allauthenticated 630.

In all authenticated 630, the handle may check to see if all deploymentunits inserted in bays of the handle have been authenticated orpreviously authenticated. If any bay has a deployment unit that has notbeen authenticated, previously authenticated, or authentication failed,control returns to handle selects 610. If the deployment units in thebays have all been authenticated, previously authenticated, or failedauthentication, execution of method 600 is complete.

For example, processing circuit 218 may store information as to whichbays have been polled and which bays hold authenticated deploymentunits, deployment units that failed authentication, or are empty. Onceall bays have been checked and the deployment units in the baysauthenticated or failed to authenticate, method 600 is complete and themethod exits at end 634. If a bay remains unchecked the executioncontrol by processing circuit 218 returns to handle selects 610.

After method 600 has been performed, the CEW may perform method 500 tofire the deployment units to provide a stimulus signal through a target.

A CEW may perform method 700 of FIG. 7 to communicate with a deploymentunit after the deployment unit has been fired. Method 700 includes thefollowing steps: provide info 702, ack fault 704, 734, and 744, setfired flag 706, log fault 708, 738, and 748, lock data 718, and end 724.A processing circuit in a handle may perform all or part of method 700.A processing unit of a handle may cooperate with a processing unit in adeployment unit to perform method 700. A processing circuit of a handle,while performing method 700, may use read process 432 and write process434 to read data from and write data to a deployment unit.

In provide info 702, a handle may write data to a deployment unitsubsequent to firing the deployment unit. The data written by the handleto the deployment unit may include a time and/or date of firing, thehandle serial number, the energy (e.g., charge) delivered, the number ofstimulus signals delivered, and other deployment data. The data isstored in non-volatile memory in the deployment unit and may beavailable for retrieval from the deployment unit at any time. Data froma deployment unit may be retrieved by any handle by inserting theexpended deployment unit into a bay of the handle and requesting thedeployment unit to provide the data.

For example, processing circuit 218 may write information about firing adeployment unit using write process 434. Processing circuit 218 may sendone or more write requests to the deployment unit with the informationto be written in the deployment unit. The write requests may contain thedata discussed above. The information may be sent via C/D 234 and C/D350 to deployment unit 340 in bay 224 or C/D 254 and C/D 350 ofdeployment unit 340 in bay 226. Processing circuit 322 confirms thewrite request and writes the data in memory 324. Control proceeds to ackfault 704 to await the deployment unit's response to the write request.

In ack fault 704, the handle waits for a response from a deployment unitthat has been requested to write data. If a response is not received ina predetermined interval of time, a fault may have occurred. If aresponse indicates an error, a fault may have occurred. If a responsecontains corrupted data, a fault may have occurred. If a fault does notoccur in the response from the deployment unit, control proceeds to setfired flag 706. If the response from the deployment unit arrives withinthe allowed window of time and does not include any errors or corrupteddata, control proceeds to set fired flag 706.

For example, processing circuit 218 waits for a response to a write orread request for a specific period of time. Processing circuit 218 mayset a count-down timer once a write or read request has been sent to adeployment unit. If the timer expires without receiving a response fromthe deployment unit, processing circuit 218 proceeds to log fault 708.If processing circuit 218 receives a response from a deployment unitbefore expiration of the time, but the response indicates an error orincludes corrupted data, control proceeds to log fault 708. Ifprocessing circuit 218 receives a write or read response acknowledgingreceipt and execution of the request by the deployment unit, controlproceeds to set fired flag 706.

In log fault 708, a CEW records in the handle memory any read or writerequests that have not been properly acknowledged by a deployment unit.A proper acknowledgement from a deployment unit returns a messageindicating the request was successfully executed. The fault andassociated deployment unit identifier are stored in handle memory aspart of a log.

For example, and as discussed above, upon expiration of the count-downtimer, processing circuit 218 writes a fault in memory 220 to record thedeployment unit identifier, the type of request, and a time out fault.Processing circuit 218 may write a fault in memory 220 if the responsefrom a deployment unit indicates a request was not successfullyexecuted. The fault may include the deployment unit identifier, type ofmessage, and returned error type or code. Further, processing circuit218 may write a fault to memory memorializing the receipt of corrupteddata. After recording the fault in memory 220, control proceeds to setfired flag 706.

Process set fired flag 706 instructs the deployment unit to set a flagin the memory of the deployment unit indicating that the deployment unithas been fired. Control then proceeds to Ack fault 734 to awaitacknowledgement from the deployment unit as discussed above with respectto ack fault 704.

For example, processing circuit 218 sends a write request via writeprocess 434 to the deployment unit. The request instructs the deploymentunit to set a location reserved in memory for the fired flag to a firedvalue (e.g., state). Control proceeds to ack fault 734. Ack fault 734and log fault 738 perform the steps of ack fault 704 and log fault 708respectively as discussed above. After execution of ack fault 734 and/orlog fault 738, control proceeds to lock data 718.

In lock data 718, a handle may instruct a deployment unit to protect thefired flag from being altered. A request to protect the fired flag maybe contained in a write request. In an implementation, a handle may lockthe fired flag upon the flag being set without receiving an explicitrequest.

For example, processing circuit 218 sends a request to lock the firedflag with a write request via write process 434. Processing circuit 322receives the request and executes code to prevent the fired flaglocation in memory 324 from being altered. Processing circuit 322 mayenable hardware that prevents the fired flag location in memory 324 frombeing altered. Processing circuit 322 may read the contents of firedflag location in memory and, if set, not perform any further writeoperations to that location. Processing circuit 322 provides a responseto processing circuit 218 indicating the success of the request. Controlproceeds to ack fault 744. Ack fault 744 and log fault 748 perform thesteps of ack fault 704 and log fault 708 respectively as discussedabove. After execution of ack fault 744 and/or log fault 748, controlproceeds to end 724.

End 724 represents the end of execution of method 700.

A CEW may perform method 800 of FIG. 8 to communicate with one or moreelectronic devices. Method 800 may provide data to an electronic devicefrom a handle after the handle is authenticated. Data provided to theelectronic device may include logs of CEW usage and/or operation. Method800 includes the following steps: safety on 806, connect 808, timer 810,wake up 812, counter 814, phone 816, transfer logs 818, identity 820,and power down 822. A processing circuit in a handle may perform all orpart of the steps of method 800.

In safety on 806, the handle detects that the user has move the safetyto the on position thereby disarming the CEW. While the CEW is disarmed,it is prevented from energizing it signal generator, launchingelectrodes, and providing a stimulus signal. Safety on 806 may cause thetransmission of a low energy signal (e.g., beacon) indicating itspresence to nearby electronic devices. A proximate electronic device mayrespond to the beacon.

For example, responsive to the safety switch set to on, processingcircuit 218 may instruct communication circuit 222 to broadcast a beaconusing Bluetooth Low Energy (“BLE”). Communication circuit 222 maytransmit the beacon (e.g., advertisement) that may be received by nearbyBLE devices. An electronic device may respond to the beacon and requesta connection with the CEW. Control proceeds to connect 808.

In connect 808, the CEW listens for a response to its beacon from anelectronic device. An app (e.g., software, application, program) runningon a BLE enabled electronic device scans for BLE beacons. The app seeksand recognizes advertisement messages from a CEW. The app may thenrequest a communication link with the CEW.

For example, communication circuit 222 transmits a BLE beacon andlistens for a response from an electronic device. If communicationcircuit 222 receives a connection request, communication circuit 222communicates the request to processing circuit 218. Processing circuit218 determines if the requesting electronic device is authorized toconnect with the CEW. If authorized, processing circuit 218 may instructcommunication circuit 222 to establish the wireless communication link(e.g., connection). Control proceeds to phone 816. If a connectionrequest is not received, control proceeds to timer 810.

In timer 810, the CEW may be powered down to a reduced power state inwhich only some components operate, either fully or partially. A timermay be set to indicate when the handle should power up and enable theCEW to broadcast a BLE beacon again and scan for connection requests.

For example, processing circuit 218 may instruct power supply 214,communications circuit 222 and/or other CEW components to enter areduced power state. In a reduced power state, processing circuit 218may continue to operate to some level and power may be removed from anydeployment units. Processing circuit 218 starts a timer, then controlproceeds to wake up 812.

In wake up 812, the timer runs until a predetermined time has elapsed ora threshold time reached. Once the time has expired, the CEW returns toits powered state and may enable some handle components.

For example, processing circuit 218 may continue running the timer setin timer 810 until the timer has expired by counting down to zero,counting up to a predetermined threshold, or determining an elapsedtime. Control proceeds to counter 814 when the timer has expired.

In counter 814, the CEW may increment a counter to record the number oftimes the timer has expired and the CEW has attempted to establish aconnection with an electronic device. If a predetermined number ofattempts has not been reached, control passes to connect 808 and the CEWagain attempts to establish a connection with an electronic device. If apredetermined number of attempts has been reached, the CEW may powerdown and await instructions from a user to power up, such as when theuser arms the CEW.

For example, processing circuit 218 may increment or decrement a counterthat tracks the number of times that the handle as attempted to connectwith an electrode device. Processing circuit 218 determines whether thecounter has decremented to zero or incremented to a predeterminednumber. In either case, once the limit on attempts has been reached,control proceeds to power down 822. If the limit or threshold has notbeen reached, control returns to connect 808.

If a connection is established in connect 808, the electronic device mayauthenticate the CEW in phone 816. Authentication (e.g., pairing) mayinclude the exchange of encryption keys for further communication usingconventional protocols (e.g., Bluetooth specification version 4.2). Withtrust established and encryption keys exchanged, the CEW and electronicdevice may exchange information securely (e.g., encrypted).

For example, communication circuit 222 cooperates with processingcircuit 218 to perform an authentication process with electronic device170. Public keys may be exchanged so that the CEW and electronic device170 may establish trust and exchange encrypted messages. The public keyenables the CEW to decrypt messages encrypted by the electronic deviceusing a private key and vice versa. Encrypted communication may also beused establish the identity of the sending device by the transfer ofmessages that provide identity information. Once the CEW has beenauthenticated to electronic device 170, control proceeds to transferlogs 818.

In transfer logs 818, an electronic device may request identifyinginformation and/or logs from a CEW. An electronic device may request alllogs stored in a CEW, logs from a specified date range, and/or logswithin a time interval (e.g., last thirty days, previous seven days).The electronic device may transfer the logs to a website. The transferto a website may include secure and/or encrypted data exchange betweenthe electronic device and the server of the website.

For example, communication circuit 222 cooperates with processingcircuit 218 and memory 220 to provide the log data requested byelectronic device 170. Communication circuit 222 receives the logrequest and decrypts the request message in cooperation with processingcircuit 218. Processing circuit 218 retrieves the log information frommemory 220 and, in cooperation with communication circuit 222, assemblesthe information into a format for encryption and transmission toelectronic device 170. Once the logs have been transferred to electronicdevice 170, control proceeds to identity 820.

In identity 820, a CEW may record information identifying the electronicdevice that received the data transferred in transfer logs 818. A CEWmay record what information was provided to the electronic device. A CEWmay record a date and/or time that information was requested and/ortransferred to the electronic device. A CEW may include transferinformation in a log.

For example, processing circuit 218 writes the identity of electronicdevice 170 to memory 220. Processing circuit 218 also writes the dateranges of the transferred logs as well as the date and/or time the logswere transferred. Processing circuit 218 may include the transferinformation in subsequent log requests from an electronic device. Afterwriting a record of the log transfer in memory 220, control proceeds toprocess power down 822.

In power down 822, the CEW goes to an idle or sleep state to conservepower. Power may be reduced so that user interface 212 and processingcircuit 218 may perform limited functionality. Power may be cut entirelyto other CEW components. The CEW may remain in a power down state untildetection of a user control restoring normal operation, such as movingthe safety switch to the off position to arm the CEW.

For example, processing circuit 218 cooperates with power supply 214 toreduce power consumption. Power supply 214 provides full or partialpower to user interface 212, processing circuit 218, and memory 220.Power supply 214 reduces or severs power to other CEW components. If auser input is received by user interface 212 to power up the CEW,processing circuit 218 receives the request from user interface 212 andinstruct power supply 214 to restore normal power. Power supply 214 maysupply limited or no power to signal generator 216 until the CEW isarmed.

The foregoing description discusses implementations (e.g., embodiments),which may be changed or modified without departing from the scope of thepresent disclosure as defined in the claims. Examples listed inparentheses may be used in the alternative or in any practicalcombination. As used in the specification and claims, the words‘comprising’, ‘comprises’, ‘including’, ‘includes’, ‘having’, and ‘has’introduce an open-ended statement of component structures and/orfunctions. In the specification and claims, the words ‘a’ and ‘an’ areused as indefinite articles meaning ‘one or more’. While for the sake ofclarity of description, several specific embodiments have beendescribed, the scope of the invention is intended to be measured by theclaims as set forth below. In the claims, the term “provided” is used todefinitively identify an object that not a claimed element but an objectthat performs the function of a workpiece. For example, in the claim “anapparatus for aiming a provided barrel, the apparatus comprising: ahousing, the barrel positioned in the housing”, the barrel is not aclaimed element of the apparatus, but an object that cooperates with the“housing” of the “apparatus” by being positioned in the “housing”.

The location indicators “herein”, “hereunder”, “above”, “below”, orother word that refer to a location, whether specific or general, in thespecification shall be construed to refer to any location in thespecification whether the location is before or after the locationindicator.

Methods described herein are illustrative examples, and as such are notintended to require or imply that any particular process of anyembodiment be performed in the order presented. Words such as“thereafter,” “then,” “next,” etc. are not intended to limit the orderof the processes, and these words are instead used to guide the readerthrough the description of the methods.

What is claimed is:
 1. A conducted electrical weapon (“CEW”) forproviding a current through a human or animal target to impedelocomotion of the target, the CEW comprising: a handle, the handleincludes a first processing circuit, a power supply, and a signalgenerator, the signal generator for providing the current; a deploymentunit, the deployment unit includes a second processing circuit, amemory, and at least one wire-tethered electrode, the deployment unitconfigured to removably couple to the handle, the at least onewire-tether electrode for launching toward the target to provide thecurrent through the target to impede locomotion of the target; whereinwhile the deployment unit is coupled to the handle: the power supplyprovides power to the second processing circuit; the first processingcircuit sends a first message to the second processing circuit; inresponse to receiving the first message, the second processing circuitsends a second message to the first processing circuit; and the firstprocessing circuit compares the first message to the second message todetermine whether the second processing circuit received the firstmessage without error.
 2. The CEW of claim 1 wherein the second messageis a copy of at least a portion of the first message.
 3. The CEW ofclaim 1 wherein: the second message is a copy of at least a portion ofthe first message; and the second processing circuit echoes back onebyte of the copy for each byte of the first message received.
 4. The CEWof claim 1 wherein if the second message does not match the firstmessage, the first processing circuit determines that the secondprocessing circuit did not receive the first message without error. 5.The CEW of claim 1 wherein if the second message matches the firstmessage, the first processing circuit determines that the secondprocessing circuit received the first message without error.
 6. The CEWof claim 1 wherein if the second message does not match the firstmessage, the first processing circuit resends the first message to thesecond processing circuit.
 7. The CEW of claim 1 wherein at least one ofthe first message and the second message comprises a header, a body, anda postscript.
 8. The CEW of claim 7 wherein at least one of the firstmessage and the second message further comprises one or more bits for atleast one of error detection and error correction.
 9. The CEW of claim 1wherein the second processing circuit executes a program stored in thememory.
 10. A conducted electrical weapon (“CEW”) for providing acurrent through a human or animal target to impede locomotion of thetarget, the CEW comprising: a handle, the handle includes a firstprocessing circuit, a power supply, and a signal generator, the signalgenerator for providing the current; a deployment unit, the deploymentunit includes a second processing circuit, a memory, and at least onewire-tethered electrode, the deployment unit configured to removablycouple to the handle, the at least one wire-tether electrode forlaunching toward the target to provide the current through the target toimpede locomotion of the target; wherein: while the deployment unit iscoupled to the handle, the power supply provides power to the secondprocessing circuit and the memory; the first processing circuit sends aread request to the second processing circuit; and in response to theread request, the second processing circuit sends a read response to thefirst processing circuit, the read response includes data from thememory.
 11. The CEW of claim 10 wherein at least one of the read requestand the read response comprises one or more bits for at least one oferror detection and error correction.
 12. The CEW of claim 10 wherein inresponse to the read request the second processing circuit further sendsa copy of the read request to the first processing circuit to confirmreceipt of the read request.
 13. The CEW of claim 10 wherein the readrequest requests data from the memory.
 14. The CEW of claim 13 whereinthe data includes at least one of a name of a manufacturer of thedeployment unit, a deployment unit identifier, a deployment unit type, adate of manufacture, a deployment unit firmware version, an expirationdate of the deployment unit, and an arbitrary string.
 15. The CEW ofclaim 10 wherein the second processing circuit executes a program storedin the memory.
 16. A conducted electrical weapon (“CEW”) for providing acurrent through a human or animal target to impede locomotion of thetarget, the CEW comprising: a handle, the handle includes a firstprocessing circuit, a power supply, and a signal generator, the signalgenerator for providing the current; a deployment unit, the deploymentunit includes a second processing circuit, a memory, and at least onewire-tethered electrode, the deployment unit configured to removablycouple to the handle, the at least one wire-tether electrode forlaunching toward the target to provide the current through the target toimpede locomotion of the target; wherein: while the deployment unit iscoupled to the handle, the power supply provides power to the secondprocessing circuit and the memory; the first processing circuit sends awrite request to the second processing circuit, the write requestincludes data; and in response to the write request, the secondprocessing circuit stores the data in the memory.
 17. The CEW of claim16 wherein the write request comprises one or more bits for at least oneof error detection and error correction.
 18. The CEW of claim 16 whereinin response to the write request the second processing circuit furthersends a copy of the write request to the first processing circuit toconfirm receipt of the write request.
 19. The CEW of claim 16 whereinthe data includes an instruction to set a fired flag in the memory toindicate that the at least one wire-tethered electrode has been launchedtoward the target.
 20. The CEW of claim 16 wherein the second processingcircuit executes a program stored in the memory.